SPRINGFIELD, IL – Last night, SB 1531 passed through the House Energy & Environment Committee. State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) is a member of this committee and fought against the out-of-touch ban on Styrofoam and polystyrene containers. The bill aims to ban the commonly-used polystyrene containers by 2030.
Meier fought against this legislation in committee, saying that mom-and-pop businesses, VFW halls, diners, food trucks, and church suppers will be affected the most by this new mandate.
“It’s business as usual in Springfield, here’s yet another out-of-touch attempt by Chicago Democrats to mandate every aspect of our lives,” said Meier. “Where I come from, these containers are cheap, safe, and widely used. Banning them won’t change the climate—but it will change the bottom line for small businesses and community groups trying to survive.”
In his comments, Meier also noted that Illinois has more pressing issues to address than the ban of Styrofoam to-go containers and cups.
“We’re here and ready to do the work to lower property taxes, reign in the cost of living, and reduce government spending,” Meier said. “There’s a smarter way to reduce waste without sacrificing jobs, raising food prices, or burdening small businesses.”
SB 1531 passed the House Energy & Environment Committee, with 7 Republicans voting against it. Rep. Meier is hopeful that the majority party will hear their voices and do not call the bill for a vote in the House. You can follow SB 1531 as it progresses in the legislative process at ilga.gov.
Watch video of Meier’s testimony below.